Stink bugs are a pest that can be found in gardens, yards, and homes. In spring and summer, these pests can be found in your outdoor space, looking for something to eat. In fall, stink bugs have a habit of sneaking into homes and finding a place to overwinter. Like any bugs, if stink bugs can find something to eat, they’ll be more likely to stick around. Knowing what these bugs eat can help you to avoid attracting them. We’ve made a list of things that stink bugs like to eat.
1. Fruits & Vegetables
Stink bugs primarily feed on plants, including different fruit and vegetables. They will eat many types including apples, cherries, cucumbers, peppers, and tomatoes. Stink bugs can cause problems for gardeners because their feeding can damage produce. If stink bugs end up in your home, they will feed on any produce that is left out. To avoid attracting them to your house, store your produce in the refrigerator instead of leaving it on the counter.
2. Ornamental Plants & Trees
Stink bugs will also feed on ornamental plants, flowers, and trees. They suck the sap or plant juice from the plant tissue. They often feed on the stems and leaves of plants and flowers. Shrubs and bushes can be a snack for them too. Some nymphs will feed on weeds and grass in your yard. Plants in your home can be attractive to stink bugs too. If you notice them on your plants, you’ll want to work to remove them. In your garden, you can add plants that are known to repel these bugs like chrysanthemums and lavender.
3. Seeds & Grains
These bugs will also feed on the seeds of plants. As with plants, they will pierce the seeds of plants and fruit to feed on the nutrients. Stink bugs prefer to feed on developing seeds. Some stink bug species will also feed on grains. Corn, rice, and wheat can become a meal for these pests. Their feeding can damage the plants and hinder the plant’s growth. While stink bugs will feed on the plants and kernels, you don’t have to worry about them eating your pantry items.
4. Insects
Most stink bugs feed on plants, especially the species most likely to invade homes. However, there are some species that will eat other insects. These stink bugs are known as predatory stink bugs and include species such as the spined soldier bug and the two-spotted stink bug. These predatory stink bugs will feed on species of beetles, caterpillars, and weevils. Because they eat plant pests, these stink bugs can be beneficial to have in your garden. It’s important to correctly identify the species to make sure your plants are safe.
Having stink bugs hanging out in your space can be concerning. Minimizing attractants and taking steps to protect your plants can help you to avoid an infestation. If you’re dealing with stink bugs or other pests, we want to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution when used as directed.